Numbers 5 Study Notes
Share
This resource is exclusive for PLUS Members
Upgrade now and receive:
- Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy uninterrupted access.
- Exclusive Commentaries: Dive deeper with in-depth insights.
- Advanced Study Tools: Powerful search and comparison features.
- Premium Guides & Articles: Unlock for a more comprehensive study.
5:15-17 The woman suspected of adultery would be brought before the priest at the entrance of the tabernacle. The woman was to stand before the Lord, who would act as her judge.
5:18 To let down her hair was a sign of mourning or disgrace (Lv 10:6; 13:45; 21:10).
5:19-22 The extended oath of imprecation took place at the entrance to the sanctuary before God and the priest. The mixture of holy water and dust from the tabernacle floor (v. 16) became either a purification tonic if the woman was innocent or a curse that left her barren for life.
5:23-28 In the solemn ceremony, the woman drank the potion and the results were left to God. Perhaps there was only a slight possibility that the punishment would happen. A jealous husband, having no more than a hunch of evidence against his wife, subjected her to a test in which the prospects of punishment were very limited. God is the only infallible judge.
5:29-31 These verses summarize the jealousy ritual.